Kia is ready to give its flagship electric SUV a makeover. The company has officially teased the upcoming facelift variant of the EV6 which is expected to arrive soon in the global markets. The new Kia EV6 facelift teaser shows an updated design but doesn’t confirm any primary powertrain upgrades. How does the facelift Kia EV6 looks? Find out the details here:
Kia EV6 Facelift Upcoming: All Design Upgrades Revealed By Teaser
Kia has shared the teaser shots of the upcoming EV6 facelift. The all-electric SUV from the South Korean auto manufacturer is amongst the top choices for the premium consumers and have been due for a facelift since its launch. The teaser set confirms a design overhaul upfront which seems familiar to the new Kia EV5 and EV9 variants.
The upgraded Kia EV6’s fascia includes a tweaked bumper design and the headlamps have also received a transformed look. The LED DRLs gets an angular design now while the main headlamps have been aligned vertically and are now sleek compared to the previous unit. While the teaser reveals major design upgrade upfront, the changes at the rear aren’t clearly visible through the teaser images.
The Kia EV6 facelift model is teased with the same connected lightbar but any other design change is not clear. Nevertheless, considering Kia is bring it as a facelift model, we can’t rule out the possibilities of additional design overhaul. That said, we can see from the teaser photos that the KiaEV6’s facelift model gets sharper and sleek attire over the previous model and looks more futuristic.
We are not really sure if Kia will make minor or major tweaks to the EV6 facelift’s cabin. However, online reports do indicate subtle changes to the dashboard design along with new steering wheel design. The mounted controls on the steering might also get updated and some additional set of features could also be added to the cabin.
With the official teaser being shared by the brand officially, the launch timeline seems imminent for the Kia EV6 Facelift model. Some reports suggests Kia will bring the EV6 within next few months in the global markets. We can expect confirmation from Kia on the same in the coming weeks.
MG is amongst the key players in the rapidly growing four wheeler EV market in India. It’s expertise with SUVs has been giving it an edge over its rivals in the country. Giznext recently got an opportunity to get a first hand intercity driving experience with the ZS EV. And in this article we are sharing our journey with the modern electric crossover SUV. Here’s what we believe are the pros and cons of taking an EV on a long road trip:
Average Driving Run: 8 Hours ( With charging stops included)
Our media drive commenced from MG Motor’s Moti Nagar dealership and concluded at Chandigarh. With an average distance of 247 km, we drove the MG ZS EV’s ADAS variant which is loaded with all modern amenities.
Average Charging Duration: 30- 35 percent within an hour
Charger Type: Fast DC chargers
When we started, our ZS EV driving unit had around 75 percent of charge, with the battery percentage dropping to around 38 percent at the first mid-way halt. This was with an average run speed of 90- 100 kmph on the highways. We got to refuel the battery from 38- 50 percent within half an hour during the first stop. Second battery recharge was done at 21 percent where it almost similar duration for up to 48 percent refuel.
Comfort Drive: This crossover electric SUV was comfortable throughout the drive. Spacious cabin and premium quality seats makes the drive a fun.
Modern Cockpit
Dual-tone interiors: The dual-tone interiors with the dashboard featuring soft-leather finish adds all luxury to the cabin also making the room size feel airy. The dual-pane panoramic sunroof is an added bonus besides the modern cockpit.
Full-Digital Instrument Cluster And Driver Display: The big 10.1-inch infotainment screen and the 7-inch driver’s display makes the cabin all futuristic when combined with the metal-finish rotary dial.
Smooth Handling And Cabin Operations
Nimble handling: Smooth and nimble flat-bottom steering enhances the drive experience. The steering gets mounted controls as well for media and other functionalities and offer a soft click.
Hands-free cabin operations: With the automated digital multilingual voice assistant support, you can get several tasks done with voice commands. Opening/closing sunroof, media playback, get weather updates, and much more.
Multiple Drive Modes
Eco Mode: Eco mode is the one we preferred during our drive from Delhi to Chandigarh. Of course, saving up on the battery have been a concern considering it was an intercity drive and the battery charge wasn’t 100 percent when we started. Range delivery in this mode has been the highest. Take this mode as the most reliable one if you have range anxiety being an EV owner. Experience a decent pick up and throttle response in the Eco mode.
Normal Mode: This mode offer slightly better power stats than the Eco mode but the range drops down by around 30- 40 km in this mode. That’s what we experience during the drive. However, you get a better punch when you hit the throttle as compared to the Eco mode.
Sport Mode: This one will surely kick in some adrenaline when you push the accelerator. The Sport Mode makes the ZS EV zip through with high speed accelerations where you can feel the drag pull. While the Sport Mode is meant to make the drive exhilarating, it surely drains up the battery faster than the remaining two modes.
Decent Battery Backup
Equipped with a 50.3 kWh battery, the ZS EV comes as a decent option for long range drives. Our driving distance of around 250 kms required re-charging the battery twice. But that was with the battery being charged at around 75 percent while starting the journey. Also, during the drive media playback and climate control features were in use that might have some impact on the range delivery. But nothing evident as such. Hence range anxiety isn’t a big concern with the MG ZS EV.
Advanced Security Features
The MG ZS EV comes with LEVEL 2 ADAS suite which enhances overall security with the drive. We can say ADAS operates accurately when activated using the vehicle settings. With the ZS EV, you get a plethora of smart security features including adaptive cruise control, lane and traffic jam assist, front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, Hill assist mode, and more.
This we can say is one of the major drawbacks while driving an EV intercity. Range anxiety can become. areal concern if your EV is running low on battery. Now, the MG ZS EV we were driving definitely delivered a premium and luxurious experience throughout. But multiple challenges with locating the apr charging station and battery recharge might kill the drive experience for a majority.
Waiting Time
Now even of you have located a charger, unless it’s a fast DC charging station (which most are), you might have to wait for a while for a full refuel. We experienced power outage issues at charging stations which hampered the experience by extending the waiting time. Again, your EV isn’t to be blamed here.
Conclusion
Overall, the intercity drive with the MG ZS EV has been a great experience. This EV is future ready and seems fit for Indian roads too. Of course, we can’t skip out the advanced cabin and security features along with the smooth ride it offers. The MG ZS EV is suitable for city drives with the nimble handling and easy maneuverability but can also handle occasional long rides. But make sure you are done with all homework when the charging stations are concerned for the travel.
Ampere Nexus electric scooter made its debut in the Indian market as the latest premium family e-scooter. The company is taking up pre-orders for the Nexus electric scooter at Rs. 9,999 and has kept its pricing starting at Rs. 1.10 lakh in the country. Ampere Nexus electric scooter features an LFP battery pack and is claimed to offer over 130 km range per charge. Here are the top rivals and alternatives it goes up against:
The Ampere Nexus electric scooter key highlights include a 4 kWh motor linked to a 3kWh battery pack. This electric scooter is launched in two different variants including ST and SX. Nexus e-scooter comes with up to 136 km range per charge and has up to 63 kmph top speed. The Nexus e-scooter takes up to 3.5 hours for a full battery charge. Available in Indian Red, Steel Grey, Lunar White, and Zanskar Aqua colors, the Nexus e-scooter can be pre-booked at Rs. 9,000. Now, let’s take a quick look at the top rivals of the Nexus E-scooter in India.
Launched at Ather Energy’s Community Day event last month, the Ather Rizta is one of the top rivals taking on the Nexus e-scooter. This electric scooter is also launched in two different trim options integrated with up to 3.7 kWh battery offering up to 160 km range per charge.
Family e-scooter with spacious seats and storage
Rizta S and Rizta Z variants introduced
base model equipped with a 2.9 kWh battery, while the top model has a 3.7 kWh battery pack
Another popular e-scooter which competes with the newly launched Ampere Nexus electric scooter is the OLA S1X. This electric scooter is also available in multiple battery pack options and is available with a starting price of Rs. 70,000 (with the latest discount deals).
Available with a 2kWh, 3kWh, and 4 kWh battery option
Top variant can offer up to 151 km range per charge
Battery takes around 6.5 hours (4 kWh variant) for a full charge
Offers up to 90 kmph top speed
Sprints from 0-40 kmph in 3.3 seconds
Has a digital instrument console
Price in India with effective discounts start at Rs. 70,000 ( ex showroom)
Bajaj Chetak EV is another alternate to the Nexus electric scooter with a starting price range under Rs. 1,20 lakh and features such as a big 3.2 kWh battery, a touchscreen TFT panel and, more.
Affordable option similar to the Nexus and others in this list
Features a BLDC hub motor linked to a 3.3 kWh battery pack
Can offer up 127 km range on a full battery charge
The two wheeler EV market is witnessing a launch spree and we have contenders in every possible segment. The Nexus electric scooter has arrived with promising powertrain and has a modern and sleek design with which it will give a tough run to the rivals. These alternates mentioned in the list are suitable for the potential buyers with a budget under Rs. 1.20 lakh.
For the EV enthusiasts, we have started a dedicated segment where we are doing a weekly roundup of the latest happenings from the E2W and E4W industry. This week as well, we have come across several major insights from the electric vehicle market. From a new Ultraviolette high-speed electric motorcycle launch to XUV.e9 production-ready test mule leak, the third week of April has some exciting headlines for the fans. Let’s take a look:
Ultraviolette has introduced its latest high-speed e-motorcycle model called the F77 Mach 2. Launched in two new variants, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 is an extremely powerful electric motorcycle offering up to 323 km range on a full charge and 152 kmph top speed. The new F77 Mach 2 boasts a range of nifty features and has three riding modes, regenerative braking, and more. The latest premium high-speed electric motorcycle from Ultraviolette has been launched at a starting price of Rs. 2.99 lakh (standard model) and Rs. 3.99 lakh (Recon variant) in India.
Another major announcement from the E2W industry is the upcoming Ampere NXG electric scooter launch in India. After commencing the pre-bookings for the NXG e-scooter and getting a trademark filing done for the Nexus, Ampere finally confirmed the April 30 launch date of its new electric scooter. Interested customers can complete the pre-registrations at the company’s official website with Rs. 499 token amount.
Bajaj Auto is also rumored to be launching a new electric scooter for the Indian consumers. The company is said to soon launch an affordable variant of the Chetak electric scooter which will be the third model besides the Chetak Urbane and Chetak Premium. The launch timeline and powertrain details are unknown at the moment, but expect the rumor mill to spill the beans soon.
Mahindra and Mahindra is all set to populate its EV portfolio in India with multiple models. The XUV.e9 is one of the variants which will be debuting likely by 2025 in India. A spy shot of the XUV.e9’s test mule has been doing rounds showcasing the real-life road presence of the coupe-style e-SUV. Rumors are rife that Mahindra could introduce the XUV.e9 with an 80 kWh battery with which it will likely offer up to 450 km driving range.
Okaya EV ‘s Ferrato launching Disruptor e-motorcycle
Will be a premium model
Pre-booking started
Okaya EV’s new premium EV brand Ferrato is set to launch its first e-motorcycle in India. Called the Ferrato Disruptor, the upcoming electric motorcycle will be the company’s first high-end model marking its debut next month in the counrty. Ferrato has started taking up pre-orders for the Disruptor e-motorcycle. Know the details here:
Ferrato Disruptor Electric Motorcycle: Pre-Bookings, Launch Date
Okaya EV’s Ferrato brand is bringing its first high-end electric motorcycle called Disruptor to the Indian shores on 2nd May, 2024. Ahead of its next week’s launch, Ferrato has commenced pre-orders for the Disruptor e-motorcycle. The confirmation for the upcoming premium electric motorcycle’s launch comes from an official teaser.
Okaya EV is taking up pre-bookings for the Ferrato Disruptor e-motorcycle via its official India website. For the first 1,000 customers, there’s a special offer where the token amount for the early booking would be just Rs. 500.
The reservation amounts post the special offer will be Rs. 2,500. We are currently not aware of the Disruptor electric motorcycle’s expected price range. We are waiting to see if the costing is strategically planned to breach the highlight competitive E2W segment considering it’s being marketed as a premium model.
Ferrato Disruptor Electric Motorcycle Powertrain And Features
Okaya EV’s Ferrato Disruptor electric motorcycle’s teaser poster has showcased a sports styling. The aggressive design of the upcoming e-motorcycle will be complemented by a powerful powertrain setup. As per the information available, the Ferrato Disruptor electric motorcycle will integrate a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) with 6.4 kW power output. This new high-speed electric motorcycle from Okaya Ferrato will produce up to 228 Nm of peak torque. It is said to achieve up to 95 kmph top speed.
Firefox Bikes Ltd. subsidiary, Hero Lectro has just added a new electric cargo-style bike to its collection. The MUV-E is the latest offering from the company which is designed to cater to the last mile delivery solution. The new commercial electric bicycle is priced under Rs. 1 lakh and is expected to meet the surging demand for affordable delivery vehicles in the country.
Hero Lectro MUV-E Electric Cargo Bicycle Design Highlights
The newly launched MUV-E flaunts a standard bicycle design while emphasizing the requirements with heavy-duty deliveries. This electric bicycle will handle extensive load deliveries with the dedicated big luggage basket at the front. This front luggage basket is said to handle up to 10kg of load capacity.
That’s not the only load this electric bicycle will be able to carry. The additional sturdy carriage at the rear is also capable of accommodating and ferrying up to 25 kgs of luggage capacity making it an ideal and eco-friendly solution for the last mile delivery runs. The robust and sturdy build of the Hero Lectro MUV-E further allows a collective luggage carrying capacity of up to 120 kgs which is inclusive of the riders weight.
Hero Lectro MUV E-Cargo Bicycle Powertrain And Performance Details
MUV-E
Powertrain
Battery
14.5 AH
Battery Type
Detachable
Range
70 km per charge
Charging Time
8 hours (full charge)
Gear module
7-speed Shimano
The MUV-E electric cargo bicycle is loaded with a 14.5 AH battery pack. It is a removable battery module which allows convenience with swapping and charging. With this battery pack, the MUV-E delivers up to 70 km of range on a full charge.
It is worth mentioning that the MUV-E also has pedals which assists with which the delivery partners can easily make the last runs even if the battery charges depletes completely. That said, the MUV-E electric cargo bicycle’s battery will take around 8 hours for a full charge. Both electric motor as well as the battery pack on this new commercial electric cargo bicycle have an IP67 certification which will add protection from dust as well as water splashes during rainy season.
Speaking of the utility features, Hero Lectro has loaded the MUV-E e-bicycle with an LED screen that will display ride and battery stats and a dedicated mobile charging port. The cargo-style electric motorcycle will use a 7-speed Shimano gear module and feature shock absorber at the front for smooth navigations. For braking it will use disc brakes for efficient stopping power.
BMW India has been expanding its EV portfolio in India with the premium models comprising electric SUV’s and sedans. The latest addition to the brand’s luxury EV catalogue is the i5 which went up for pre-orders earlier this month in the country. The BMW i5 luxury e-sedan is imported via the CBU route and has been introduced in a single top-spec variant.
BMW i5 M60 xDrive Design Highlights (Exteriors And Interiors)
The BMW i5 M60x Drive is the top-end model in the i5 EV lineup. This is the only variant announced for the Indian market. Notably, the top-spec M60 xDrive variant flaunts a sportier design language when compared to the standard i5 model while being built on the same platform. The iconic illuminating BMW kidney grilles painted in glossy black shade is integrated upfront with a vertically aligned LED DRLs. The bumper design is made aggressive with the spacious air intakes.
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive sports flush-fitted door handles along with side skirts completing the premium side profile. The electric sedan sits on 20-inch alloys with the tyre profiles being 245/40 R20 and 275/35 R20 front and rear respectively. The rear profile of the BMW i5 xDrive includes slim LED tail lights with chrome lining distinguishing the dual LEDs.
Speaking of the interiors, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive sports carbon fibre dashboard housing dedicated screens for infotainment and instrument cluster. The former is a 14.9-inch touch-enabled unit, while the latter is a 12.3-inch cluster displaying performance-specific metrics. The steering wheel is a flat-bottom M leather wrap module which adds to the sporty feel during drives.
The internals of the BMW i5 M60 xDrive further offers sports-style seats with active cooling feature. The electric sedan features a a panoramic sunroof and additional advanced features like 4-zone climatic control. It also has a 360° camera surveillance for a safer driving experience.
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive as mentioned is a top-spec model which integrates a dual motor setup mounted on each axle. The electric sedan’s motors generates 601 hp peak power and 795 Nm peak torque. Equipped with an 83.9 kWh battery, the BMW i5 can make a run of up to 516 km per charge (as per WLTP cycle). This electric sedan throttles to a top speed of up to 230 kmph and makes a spring from 0-100 kmph within 3.8 seconds.
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive electric sedan comes with Rs. 1.20 crore (ex showroom) price range in India. Buyers will get to chose this premium e-sedan from a range of color options including M Carbon Black, M Brooklyn Grey, Black Sapphire, Cape York Green, Oxide Grey, Mineral White, and Sophiosto Grey metallic shade. It will also be available in Alpine White shade which is a non-metallic color variant of the electric sedan.
Tata Motors collaborates with Vertelo for e-mobility boost in India
MOU signed
Tata will deliver 2,000 Xpres-T EVs to Vertelo
Tata’s Passenger Electric Mobility unit is working on to improve the electric mobility scenario in India. The company has recently joined hands with Vertelo which is a fleet electrification brand managed by Macquarie to shape up a dedicated EV ecosystem. An MOU has also been signed between Tata Passenger Electric Mobility and Vertelo where the former will be providing a fleet of around 2,000 Xpres-T EVs to the latter for enhancing the e-mobility infrastructure in the country.
Tata Motors And Vertelo Collaboration For E-Mobility Boost
The latest partnership between Tata Motors and Vertelo will improve the existing e-mobility infrastructure in the country. After signing the MOU, Tata Motors will be delivering 2,000 Xpress-T EVs in phases.
In a statement, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. Chief Commercial Officer, Vivek Srivatsa said, As market leaders of passenger EVs in India, we are committed to the uptake of sustainable mobility in the country.”
He further added, “We are delighted to partner with Vertelo in their effort to increase EV adoption in India. With over 89% market share in FY 24, the fleet segment has seen rapid adoption by Corporates and Institutions. The XPRES-T EV has proven to be an attractive option for both customers and operators in the commercial fleet segment”.
It is also being reported that Vertelo might invest around 1.5 billion US dollars within a span of next 10 years for promoting the greener mobility by helping with greenhouse gas emissions. Also the brand aims to create a dedicated EV ecosystem where it will provide consumers with a better charging infrastructure along with electric fleet management services.
The Xpress-T is currently the only EV which is catering to the fleet consumers commercially in the country. This EV is launched with dual battery variants. The base model of the Xpres-T EV has a 25.5 kWh battery with which it delivers an ARAI-certified range of up to 217 km per charge. On the other hand, the Tata Xpress-T with a bigger 26 kWh battery pack can deliver up to 315 km range per charge (ARAI-certified).
Mahindra’s upcoming electric SUV lineup which is rumored to comprise multiple variants has been making splashes online frequently since a couple of months. Besides the concept showcasing, the upcoming Mahindra EV range is also making appearances as production-ready test mules. Just a while ago, the Mahindra XUV.e9’s test mule images were doing rounds online and now the rumor mill has managed to get its hands on the XUV700 EV or the XUV.e8’s spy shots. Notably, this is the second time the XUV700 electric variant has got snapped this month indicating its upcoming debut in the country.
Mahindra XUV700 New Spy Shot Leak: Info Revealed This Time
The latest Mahindra XUV700 electric variant’s production-ready prototype snapped features an identical design as the ICE version. However, there will be several EV-centric design elements making it distinct from the ICE variant. The Mahindra XUV700 electric’s front profile will witness the prominent changes besides the alloy wheels which will now be aero-inspired for improved ride dynamics and control.
The XUV700 electric will feature a connected LED DRL and headlamp module with only a slight design change. The rear profile of the Mahindra XUV700 electric will come with the same tail light design as the ICE counterpart. The latest snapshots could only give us a glimpse of the exterior design. The XUV700 EV or the XUV.e8’s cabin images have not made it to the rumor mill until now.
But the information available online suggests the cabin features could be shared with the XUV.e9. The XUV.e8 is also said to arrive with a triple-screen digital infotainment and instrument cluster. The upcoming electric SUV could integrate a redesigned HVAC control panel with touch controls.
The cabin will be loaded with other modern amenities such as dual-zone climate control, ventilated seats, wireless charging, and more. Additionally, the XUV 700 electric variant is also rumored to come with an electronically controlled panoramic sunroof and ADAS.
Mahindra is anticipated to introduce the XUV700 electric aka the XUV.e8 with both single and dual motor setup linked to a 60 kWh and an 80 kWh battery pack. The electric SUV might offer around 500 km range per charge range with a full charge cycle. The powertrain mentioned here isn’t confirmed by Mahindra and is rather comes as courtesy of recent leaks and rumors. Hence, expect some differences in the fact-sheet with the production model once it goes up for sale in the country.
Ather 450S electric scooter owner disappointed with high service charge
Had to pay around Rs. 10,000
Service cost similar to Kia EV6
Ather Energy seems to be letting down its customers in unusual ways. Just a while ago, a Noida resident was seen complaining online getting late to work due to Ather e-scooter update. Now, another Ather customer resorted to microblogging platform Twitter to share disappointment over expensive service charge which he had to pay for the 450S electric scooter. Here’s what happened:
A user on X (Arun Bhat S) shared series of tweets where he shared disappointment with high service maintenance cost associated with the 450S electric scooter. Ather has been touting its low cost service charges for the electric scooter. The customer also shared service cost comparison between the Kia EV6 and the 450S.
With @atherenergy the low cost of service and maintenance seems to be a thing of the past . Latest service invoice for 20K service for my Kia EV6 ( AC filter change , wheel alignment, balancing & rotation) and 30K service for one of the Ather 450s are costing the same ~₹7.5 K pic.twitter.com/bAyTBI3BZS
The Ather 450S electric scooter owned by the user was serviced at 30,000 kms for which he had to pay around Rs. 7,500. Whereas, the Kia EV6 which the customer owns also got serviced with the similar costs which included AC filter change, wheel alignment, along with balancing and rotation.
In another tweet Arun notes that the Ather 450S service cost was cheaper until the pro service subscription was active. However, with this service pack getting discontinued, the charges spiked. But why exactly the service cost is so expensive and almost equivalent to that of a premium electric car.
Arun explains the primary costing which made the servicing expensive was the added cost for braking module. However, consider the Ather 450 electric scooter series utilizes regenerative braking system, the maintenance cost shouldn’t have been this high.
Ather has tried to reach out the customer and replied with a comment stating, “Hey, Arun! We’re here to help resolve any issues you’re facing. Could you kindly provide us with the case ID that you might have raised through the Ather app, or your registered contact details via DM? We’re ready to assist you further.” It remains to be seen what resolution Ather brings for this customer and other who might experience similar issues with 450 series e-scooter servicing in future.
